Name : Benzoin
Method : Directly from tree resin
Note Classification : Base
Scent : Warm, sweet, balsamic, slight vanilla, almond
Colour : Reddish-brown, orange-brown, greyish-brown
Species : Styrax Benzoin, Family Styracaceae ( Styrax ). 2 main varieties...Sumatra benzoin ( S. paralleloneurus )
Siam benzoin ( S. tonkinensis )
Extracted From : Directly from tree
Region : Sumatra.
By-products : Friars Balsam is a compound tincture of benzoin and is still used for respiratory complaints
Historical : Used in the East for medicine and incense.
Of Interest : Thick, viscous oil at room temperature. Benzoin is extracted from a large tropical tree up to 20m high.
Aromatherapy Properties : Excellent for respiratory problems. Soothing on nervous systems. Cuts and chapped skin.
Blends Well With : Citrus oils
Chemical Analysis :
Sumatra benzoin : coniferyl cinnamate, sumaresinolic acid, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, styrene, vanillin, benzaldehyde
Siam benzoin : coniferyl benzoate 65-75% + benzoic acid, vanillin, siaresinolic acid, cinnamyl benzoate
Safety Data : Non-toxic but occasionally sensitizing. Possible contact dermatitis